Saving for Big Goals: Buying a Home, Car, and More

Saving for major life goals is one of the most significant financial challenges many of us face. Financial milestones represent more than just purchases—they’re key to achieving the lifestyle we envision for ourselves and our families. 

However, the path to these goals can often feel overwhelming, filled with uncertainties and financial hurdles. Without a strategic plan, it’s easy to lose sight of your aspirations amidst the demands of daily life. This guide will equip you with actionable tips and proven strategies to help you navigate the complexities of saving for big goals. Let’s get started! 

Set clear goals

Begin by clearly identifying the specific goals you’re saving for, such as purchasing a home, buying a car, or funding a dream vacation. Knowing exactly what you’re working towards gives your savings plan purpose and direction. Understand the financial commitment involved in each goal to avoid any surprises down the road. For instance, buying a home involves a down payment, closing costs, home inspection fees, and potentially higher living expenses. Similarly, buying a car may include registration, insurance, and maintenance costs.

Once your goals are defined, establish a timeline for achieving each one. Setting a realistic timeframe is crucial, as it directly influences how much you need to save each month. For example, if you aim to buy a home in five years, you’ll calculate your monthly savings based on the total amount required and the time you have. A well-thought-out timeline will keep you motivated and help prevent procrastination. Be sure to consider any potential life changes or financial fluctuations, such as a car accident, legal fees, or loss of employment, that could impact your ability to save consistently.

Create a budget

A crucial first step in saving for big goals is a comprehensive understanding of your financial situation. Track all sources of income, including your salary, bonuses, and any side income. Simultaneously, monitor your expenses, categorizing them into needs, wants, and savings. This helps you identify spending patterns and areas where you might be overspending. 

Once you have a clear picture of your income and expenses, create a budget that aligns with your financial goals. Allocate a specific portion of your income to each savings goal, prioritizing essential needs while ensuring you’re contributing to your long-term objectives. 

The 50/30/20 rule can serve as a helpful guideline: allocate 50% of your income to needs, 30% to wants, and 20% to savings and debt repayment. Automating your savings can be an effective way to ensure that you consistently set aside money each month without having to think about it.

Open separate savings accounts

To effectively manage your savings for different goals, consider opening separate savings accounts for each one. For example, you might have one account for your home down payment, another for your car purchase, and a third for a vacation. Keeping these funds separate helps you stay organized and prevent the temptation to dip into savings designated for one goal to cover another expense. This method also allows you to track your progress toward each goal, which can be highly motivating.

When choosing savings accounts, opt for those with high interest rates, such as high-yield savings accounts or money market accounts. These accounts can help your savings grow faster, especially when dealing with large sums over an extended period. While the interest earned might not be substantial, every little bit helps, and over time, the compounded interest can make a noticeable difference. Additionally, these types of accounts often come with fewer fees, which can further maximize your savings.

Increase your income

If your current income isn’t sufficient to meet your savings goals within your desired timeline, consider taking on a side hustle. Whether it’s freelancing, gig work, dog sitting, or turning a hobby into a small business, additional income streams can significantly boost your savings. Even small amounts earned from a side job can add up over time, making a noticeable difference in your ability to reach your financial objectives. Plus, diversifying your income sources can provide added financial security.

If a side gig isn’t for you, don’t overlook the potential to increase your primary income by negotiating a raise or seeking a promotion at your current job. If you’ve been consistently performing well, gathering evidence of your contributions and confidently presenting your case to your employer can result in a higher salary. Additionally, selling unused items around your home is another way to generate extra cash. Decluttering can be therapeutic and profitable, and the money earned can be directly funneled into your savings accounts.

Invest Wisely

Beyond saving in a traditional sense, consider investing to grow your money. Depending on your risk tolerance and the timeline for your goals, investing in stocks, bonds, or mutual funds could offer higher returns compared to a standard savings account. While investing carries risks, a well-diversified portfolio can balance potential losses and gains. It’s essential to research or consult with a financial advisor to ensure that your investments align with your long-term goals and risk appetite.

If you’re open to alternative investments, real estate might be an option worth exploring, especially if you’re saving for a long-term goal. Real estate can offer both capital appreciation and rental income, but it requires a substantial upfront investment and ongoing maintenance costs. To navigate the complexities of investing, whether in stocks or real estate, consider seeking advice from a financial advisor. A professional can help tailor your investment strategy to your specific goals, timelines, and risk tolerance, ensuring that you’re on the right track.

Reaching your financial dreams

Reaching your financial goals, whether it’s buying a home, a car, or anything else that requires significant savings, is a journey that demands patience, discipline, and a clear plan. While the road may seem long and challenging, the rewards of achieving these milestones are well worth the effort. 

By setting clear goals, creating a budget, cutting unnecessary expenses, increasing your income, and investing wisely, you can steadily progress toward your dreams. Remember, flexibility and regular monitoring are key to staying on track while visualizing your goals and celebrating milestones will keep you motivated along the way. With the right approach, your biggest financial dreams are not just possible—they’re inevitable.

Megan Isola

Megan Isola holds a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and a minor in Business Marketing from Cal State University Chico. She enjoys going to concerts, trying new restaurants, and hanging out with friends. 

Buying Abandoned Property: How to Snag a Hidden Gem

Have you ever driven past a house that seems forgotten by time and thought, “What a perfect opportunity”? Obviously, buying abandoned property has crossed your mind, that’s why you wanted to read this article.

The thing is, finding an abandoned property isn’t quite like searching for a rare diamond; these hidden gems are often right under our noses, just waiting to be noticed. However, the real adventure—and the challenge—begins with figuring out how to make it yours. Therefore, consider this your guide to uncovering ownership mysteries and navigating the twists and turns of purchasing what could be the most rewarding investment of your life.

Buying Abandoned Property – A Lost Opportunity


So, I still remember this amazing property, the main gate was locked with chains and a padlock. The best I could come up with, sticking up a rolled-up handwritten I-like-to-buy-your-house-note into the padlock – I never heard from anyone.

Bottom line, I wish I had put some more thought into this. Fortunately, there is always a next time – a next opportunity. So, let’s see how it’s done.

Step 1: Spotting the Diamond in the Rough

First up, find your potential treasure. Look for signs like an overgrown garden, no lights at night, or mail piling up—a house that really seems like it’s calling for some love. That’s your cue!

Step 2: Chatting with the Neighbors

Now, let’s play detective. Start with a friendly chat with the neighbors. They’re your best source of the scoop on what’s going on with that property. Maybe they’ll share stories or even a way to contact the owner. Neighbors are like live search engines with a sprinkle of local gossip—useful and fun!

On a side note, if you are buying this abandoned property for yourself it is gold to know the neighbors before. Maybe you even understand why the previous owner abandoned it in the first place…

Step 3: Digging Deeper at the Land Registry

Your next adventure spot? The local land registry office. This place is like the library of property history—find out who owns the land, and uncover any secrets the property holds (okay, maybe just old mortgages or disputes).

In some cases, they might not be able to give you details of the owner, due to data protection laws. But never forget that a friendly chat and an entertaining conversation can open other doors. Especially in smaller communities, these kind of properties are talked about. Anything you can find out about it is a plus.

Step 4: Unraveling the Mystery of Ownership

Sometimes the owner might have passed away, leading to a property inheritance saga worthy of a soap opera. If the heirs are spread across the globe, it’s like assembling an international puzzle. However, each piece has its own story, and getting them to fit together—that’s your quest!

Well, if you ever dreamed of being a detective when you were a kid, here is your chance. Every piece of information can turn into a new lead.

Alternatively, ask a real estate professional (real estate agent, attorney…). They might have other ways to find out how to contact the current owner.

Yes, I know…, this is not like the usual search, looking for the best real estate deals online. It is more like the difficult, old-fashioned way before the time of the internet when it was all about word of mouth. That’s exactly why it could be the most rewarding investment of your life.

Step 5: Consulting a Real Estate Attorney

Navigating the maze of legal stuff can be tricky. Time to call in your real estate attorney. They’re your guide, equipped with the legal magic to deal with estates, heirs, and any other legal hurdles you might encounter.

Step 6: Reaching Out and Winning Hearts

With your lawyer´s advice, start reaching out to the heirs. Think of it as diplomatic relations; you’re the ambassador of “Let’s Make a Deal.” Be patient, be charming, and be ready to negotiate like a pro. Your mission? Get everyone on board and excited about the sale.

Often some of the heirs like to get rid of the property as nobody has the time and money to take care of it, while others think it is worth a fortune (which it is not) and therefore block the sale. Here you can be the mediator or, as a suggestion, the heirs can appoint a mediator as a neutral middleman to keep everybody happy and settle the terms of the sale in a civilized manner.

Step 7: Sealing the Deal with a Smile

Did you make it through? High-five! Now, just tie up the loose ends, sign those papers, and pop the champagne (or sparkling apple juice). You’ve navigated the adventure of buying an abandoned property with flair and finesse!

Conclusion on Buying Abandoned Property

Buying an abandoned property isn’t just a transaction—it’s an adventure, a mystery, and sometimes a party, all rolled into one. It’s about seeing the potential in a forgotten space and having the heart (and the smarts) to bring it back to life. So, gear up, stay optimistic, and go find that hidden gem. Who knows? The next abandoned house might just be your dream home waiting to happen.

And always remember, this is just the beginning…

Gems in Unusual Places: Houses for Sale in Romania!

Imagine charming houses for sale nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Romania. Whether it’s the vibrant streets of Bucharest, the serene countryside, or the historic charm of cities like Brasov and Sibiu, Romania offers a unique blend of beauty, history, and modernity that’s hard to resist. And guess what? Finding your dream house in this enchanting country has never been easier!

A World of Options at Your Fingertips

There is a lot to choose from. Imagine waking up to breathtaking views of the Carpathian Mountains, or having a coffee in your cozy garden surrounded by the medieval aura of Transylvania. From modern apartments in bustling cities to tranquil villas in the countryside, the variety of houses for sale in Romania caters to every taste and preference.

But here’s the best part: if you’re on the lookout for these hidden gems, our website is your ultimate gateway to discovering your future home. We list a vast selection of properties to make sure you find the one that speaks to you. Whether it’s love at first sight with a traditional Romanian cottage or a futuristic smart home that catches your eye, your dream house is just a few clicks away.

Listing Houses for Sale Made Easy – And Free!

Do you have a property you’re looking to sell? We’ve got some fantastic news for you! Listing your house for sale on our site is absolutely free. That’s right – no hidden fees, no catch. We believe in creating opportunities and making connections. By listing with us, you’re showcasing your property to a wide audience of eager buyers specifically interested in Romanian real estate.

Why hide your beautiful home when you can flaunt it to those who will cherish it as much as you did? Our platform is not just about transactions; it’s about bringing people together, one house at a time. Whether you’re selling a quaint little apartment or a grand mansion, your listing is welcome here.

Making Real Estate Accessible: Houses for Sale

We understand that the journey of buying or selling a house can seem difficult. That’s why our mission is to make real estate accessible, and, most importantly, understandable. Our platform is designed with you in mind – easy navigation, detailed listings, and all the information you need at your fingertips.

So, why wait? See our collection of houses for sale in Romania and start the exciting journey towards finding your dream home. And if you’re looking to sell, remember, our door is always open for your listings – and it won’t cost you a thing.

Your Next Chapter Starts Here

Romania is a country of stunning diversity and beauty, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re drawn to its rich history, captivating landscapes, or the warmth of its people, finding a house here could be the beginning of an exciting new chapter in your life.

So, explore the houses for sale in Romania on our site. Who knows? Your dream home might be just a few clicks away. And if you’re ready to pass the torch and list your property, we’re here to help you connect with the perfect buyer. Your journey starts now – let’s make it a memorable one!

Three natural threats to look out for before buying a house

The excitement of buying a house is difficult to contain, and it’s normal to be keen to dot all of the i’s and cross all the t’s as quickly as possible to secure your new home. But a little patience before you commit can save you heaps of money and stress should there be a problem with the building. You should always have a conveying company check out any property before you sign, but it’s worth doing your own research too. Let’s dive into three natural threats to look out for when buying a house.

Flood risk

It’s an unfortunate truth that many homes are built on floodplains, and with climate change causing sea levels to rise, more homes are at risk of flooding than ever before. In the UK, for example, some 11,000 homes are at high risk of flooding. Flood damage can cost thousands to repair, with extreme cases rendering properties uninhabitable for months on end. 

Homes in high-risk areas are often more affordable than you’d expect them to be, so be sure to check if the price you think is a good deal has a more sinister cause behind it. 

Coastal erosion

Coastal erosion can cause significant damage to properties, with the risk of landslides, falling rocks, and homes collapsing. Whenever considering a potential property on the coast, it’s important to hire the right people to run thorough checks on the property and area. 

Although there are plenty of benefits to living on the coast, home insurance and maintenance are typically higher. Coastal homes take the brunt of ocean storm winds, and with climate change bringing more severe weather, be sure to check your insurance policy carefully for any loopholes or exemptions.

Radon gas

Did you know that the Earth naturally emits varying levels of radioactive gas? Soil and rocks contain uranium, which releases radon gas as it decays. Radon can also be found in water. The amount of radon gas in the air varies from place to place, but high levels can contribute to lung cancer, so it’s worth checking out the levels around your new home before you buy.

Outside, radon isn’t a concern as it is naturally diluted in large quantities of air. Inside, however, levels of the potentially harmful gas can rise. It’s especially common for basements and attics to have higher levels of radon. If you discover your new home has high levels of radon, there are measures you can take to reduce its impact

Take your time

At the end of the day, buying a house is a massive investment – so it’s worth taking the time to do it carefully. Doing your own research on a potential home, as well as hiring professional conveyors, is the best way to ensure you haven’t skimmed over a potential risk factor. Whilst there’s no harm in buying properties in areas with the risk of natural threats, being prepared and well-informed is the safest way to protect yourself.

Author: Hubert Day

Houses on Sale in USA: Where Dreams Take Address

When it comes to finding your dream home, the possibilities are as vast as the American landscape itself. From traditional houses to unconventional living spaces, all the homes on sale in the USA cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. If you’re ready to embark on a journey beyond the ordinary, get ready to explore some out-of-the-box living options that could turn your dreams into reality.

1. Wanderlust on Wheels: Mobile Homes on Scenic Lands

Imagine waking up to breathtaking sunrises over the Grand Canyon or falling asleep under a starlit sky by the shores of the Pacific Ocean. With mobile homes placed on picturesque lands, you can experience the thrill of travel without ever leaving the comfort of your own home. These unique properties offer a new perspective on the term “house on wheels”. They are perfect to embrace the beauty of changing landscapes from the coziness of your abode.

2. Nature’s Embrace: Tree Houses That Defy Gravity

Revisit your childhood fantasies with tree houses that aren’t just for kids. These enchanting dwellings elevate your living experience to new heights, quite literally. Nestled among the branches, tree houses provide a peaceful sanctuary where the rustling leaves and singing birds become your neighbors. Whether you’re seeking solitude or a connection with nature, these arboreal abodes offer a truly magical way to call a tree your neighbor.

3. Living in Harmony: Homes Made from Living Trees

For those with a penchant for eco-friendly living, the concept of a home made entirely from living trees might seem like a fantasy. But in the USA, innovative architects have brought this idea to life. Through the art of weaving and strategic cultivation, these homes seamlessly blend with their natural surroundings. Imagine a home that changes with the seasons, as leaves rustle in the wind and flowers bloom around you – a true testament to harmonious coexistence.

4. Under the Big Top: Circus Tent Homes in Forested Haven

Escape the ordinary and step into the whimsical world of circus tent homes. Imagine setting up a vibrant, colorful tent in the heart of a lush forest. These unconventional homes provide a cozy retreat while embracing a sense of adventure and playfulness. Your living space becomes a canvas for your imagination, with round walls and ceilings that invite creativity and spontaneity.

5. A House Fit for a Hobbit: Earth-Sheltered Dwellings

Fans of fantasy literature might find their dreams coming true with earth-sheltered homes reminiscent of the charming hobbit holes from Middle-earth. These subterranean dwellings combine innovation and sustainability, utilizing the earth’s natural insulation to create cozy, energy-efficient spaces. Imagine a rolling hillside with whimsical doors and windows peeking out – a perfect blend of fantasy and practicality.

6. Timeless Earth: Rammed Earth Houses Blend Past and Present

For those who yearn for a connection with history and the land itself, rammed earth houses offer a captivating option. These homes seamlessly integrate ancient building techniques with modern design. They are structures that are as eco-friendly as they are visually striking. Imagine walls crafted from layers of compacted earth, exuding a natural warmth and texture that transports you to a bygone era. Rammed earth houses stand as a testament to sustainable living. They are bridging the gap between the past and the present in a truly captivating way.

Conclusion: Houses on Sale in the USA

In the realm of houses on sale in the USA, the unconventional and the extraordinary are within reach. From mobile homes that take you on a scenic journey to tree houses that provide a unique perspective; these properties redefine the concept of home sweet home. Whether you’re seeking a connection with nature or a touch of whimsy, these living spaces offer a chance to turn your dreams into tangible addresses.

So, as you explore the wide array of houses on sale in the USA, remember that your dream home might just be an adventurous choice away. Embrace the extraordinary, celebrate the unconventional, and let your imagination guide you to a dwelling that truly reflects your spirit and style.

In the land of boundless possibilities, your dream home is waiting to take its address. A place where reality and fantasy intertwine to create a unique living experience that is undeniably you.

Higher Interest Rates, Higher Prices for Materials – What it Means for the Construction Industry

This article will provide an overview of the current state of the construction industry, as well as what to expect from it in the future.

Construction projects are a major source of employment and economic growth, but they’ve been lagging in recent years due to a number of factors. It’s important that we take a closer look at these factors so we can better understand how they affect our economy and what we can do about them.

The construction industry is a crucial part of the economy. Construction jobs are projected to grow by 10% through 2022, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. It’s also one of the fastest-growing industries in the nation.

How Higher Interest Rates Affect the Construction Industry

Construction is a cyclical industry, and the market is currently in a period of expansion. However, higher interest rates can affect the construction industry in two ways. Firstly, they can lead to higher mortgage rates which will increase the cost of home ownership. Secondly, they can lead to decreased demand for homes which will decrease new construction starts.

Age Effect

The age effect is a factor that can cause the demand for housing to change. The changing of the factors in the population over time can impact on what people are looking for when they look to buy or rent a home. For example, older people typically want larger homes with more space and amenities due to their health and declining mobility. Younger people, on the other hand, want single-family homes with smaller spaces. Market conditions can also impact home values, meaning a property may be worth more during a boom or less during a bust.

How Expensive Material Affects the Construction Industry

The construction industry is a business that is highly dependent on materials. The cost of these materials can have a significant impact on the profitability of the company.

The price of materials has skyrocketed in recent years due to inflation and scarcity. This has made it difficult for companies to keep up with demand, especially smaller companies that cannot afford to pay higher prices.

The prices of these materials are not expected to change anytime soon, so companies will need to find ways to work around this problem if they want to remain competitive in the market.

One idea that is to build with cheaper materials, for example rammed earth houses. It is environmentally friendly, usually available on site and available at very little cost.

How to Prepare for a Future with Higher Interest Rates and Expensive Material

The conclusion is that the future of the economy is uncertain. We can’t predict the future and we don’t know how it will change. It’s up to us to prepare for any possible scenario – for example to consider alternative construction methods – and be ready for anything.

Thinking to buy a house? Have a look at our listings: https://www.listproperty4free.com/houses-for-sale

How to Make Full-Time Travel a Reality with Passive Income

All year long most of us are looking forward for the few weeks when we can go on vacation and finally embrace our true passion: travel. If we could prolong this to a few months it would be a dream come true. If you can’t work while travelling another way to be able to do this is through passive income.

The pursuit of passive income has become increasingly popular these days. No wonder, because it gives people the freedom to pursue their passions without relying on their salary for sustenance. So now, you can start a travel blog or create content for another website where you can share your experiences with others and make money at the same time! Writing about you experiences in a travel blog is top of the list on how to generate some passive income while you travel. Another big one is to rent out your home while you are away.

The Wealth of Experiences that can be Achieved on Full-Time Travel

A full-time traveller can visit one of the best places in the world. He can go to an exotic location and enjoy the culture. He can also go to places which are more offbeat and less visited.

The world is a very large place, and it is imperative that you make sure that you take time out for your own self-discovery. This will give you valuable life experiences which you will never forget.

Making Your Travel Dreams a Reality

The steps to make your dream a reality is about goal setting, investing, and the mindset shift.

First you need to set goals that are achievable in the next one, three, five or ten years. The rule is simple, if you don’t have goals, you will not achieve them.

Then you need to invest in yourself by learning new skills or strategies. And lastly you need to change your mindset because there is no such thing as “too late”. You can achieve anything!

Creating Your Own Path in Life while Embracing Every Moment Along the Way

You have to create your own path in life while at the same time embracing every moment along the way.

It’s time to take control of your life and start making choices that will define who you are. You have to be making decisions on a daily basis about what you want for yourself and for others. It’s also important to set goals for yourself so that you can move forward with your life instead of just drifting around aimlessly.

Full-Time Travel with Passive Income as the Ultimate Goal

Making full-time travel a reality is not everyone’s ultimate goal. This might be your goal if you’re an avid world traveller or if you like to explore new cultures and experience different lifestyles. Many people, though, want to do it because it seems so awesome and romantic. They might be retirees who want to spend their days doing what they enjoy the most after working for 40+ years and saving up for their retirement.

Achieving this ultimate goal will take a lot of time, effort, and money. Some people do it by saving up money while they’re still working and then quitting their jobs to travel the world while others work hard until they quit their jobs at 65 or 67 or whatever age that is in your country.

Of course, wasting all your life and energy to only achieve this goal at an advanced age seems a bit sad. That’s why some came up with a way of making this work before – with passive income.

Make Your Maths – How much passive income is needed?

The first thing to do would probably be to get your numbers right. How much money do you need every month to support yourself during your trips (food, accommodation, transport, travel insurance…)? How much money do you need to keep things back home?

The next thing would be to look at how much money you could possibly generate through passive income, such as renting out your home, having a travel blog etc. if the numbers don’t add up you might need some money and more time to build up more ways to generate passive income. On the other hand, you can also explore ways to save money on your travels, such as living in a van.

How Does the Van Life Work and How to Make it Work for You?

“Van life” is a popular lifestyle choice for those who are looking for a simpler life. You can find people living in vans all around the world. They are called “Van Dwellers.”

Van Dwellers choose this lifestyle not because they have no other choice, but because it best suits their needs. Living in a van lets them travel the world, be mobile and do what they want to do without having to answer to anyone else. The idea of living in a van is not only about the freedom and adventure, but also about saving money and enjoying sustainable living with minimal impact on environment.

Every summer, we can see hundreds of vans parked along the beaches where there are public toilets and showers. There is hardly any cheaper way to live.

How to Live in a Van and Travel Full-time on Low Budget

Some van dwellers will spend hours each day on Instagram and Facebook to document their adventures and share tips with others interested in joining the community. Of course, having an internet connection is a must.

If they have enough followers, they can also enjoy the financial benefit that comes with it. But what if you are not good at writing at all? Some choose to make certain investments that will give them passive income.

Investments You Can Make on a Low Budget

When you think of investing, you might think, “wow! That’s a lot of money.” But it doesn’t have to be. In fact, there are many low budget investments that can make a difference in your life.

The key to making the most out of your limited budget is to know what will give you the best return on your investment. You may be able to make a low investment and with your own work turn it into a big one. For example, if you are a handyman, you could look out for a cheap house. By putting in your own work you probably are able to sell it for a lot more later or even rent it out for good money, giving you a regular income to finance your travels.

Real estate Investments are one of the best ways to generate a regular passive income. Some people for example have looked up apartment blocks for sale as it is a lot easier to manage a whole block than to have apartments scattered around the country. Also, there are some management companies that can handle all issues that might come up with the tenants. By getting someone to look after your building you have a lot more time to enjoy your next travel adventures.

6 Other Ways You Can Get Passive Income

No matter if you want to travel the world or just like to have some more time with your loved ones. We all like to have a bit more money in our lives and there is a lot of opportunity these days with the rise of e-commerce and e-business. There are so many ways to make money from your home or van! Here are six ways that have been proven as lucrative by those who have tried them out:

1) Rent your property on Airbnb

2) Sell old clothes

3) Sell online courses

4) Invest in the stock market

5) Create an app or website that people use often and continue to pay for it with ads or subscriptions

6) Become a freelancer

How can I get a house for 100k or less?

You may be surprised to learn that you don’t need to be rich in order to buy a house. In fact, there are many ways you can save money and still get a house under 100k.

Houses are a big investment and one that should not be taken lightly. That is why it is important to find the perfect house for you, in the best location and for a price that fits your budget.

Average house prices

According to the survey, the average amount people are spending on a house now is around $400,000. So, it would take a lot of research and work to find a house that’s cheaper than 100k.

There are many ways you can get a house for close to 100k or even less than that. It just takes some time and work on your end.

Find the best value for your money

It’s not always easy to find cheap homes in the marketplace. There are many aspects that affect the value of a home. The general rule of thumb, however, is to buy close to the city centre if you want better value.

Some people say that it might be easier to find a cheap home by looking at area listings, or by looking at other more affordable areas outside of the city centre. However, this might not be possible for everyone who wants to live in an urban setting.

Be more creative in your search

So, what should you do? Get creative with your search and don’t limit yourself too much by just looking at one area when there are so many others out there for you to explore!

Saving up for a down payment is the first big step in achieving this goal. You can save the down payment by living with your parents or by renting an apartment in an inexpensive location and then saving up more money over time.

A lot of people want to purchase a home but they don’t have the money. It’s not uncommon for people to spend their life savings on a house – which is why many people end up living in their parents’ basement. That’s actually not a bad idea if it helps you to save up for your own home at the same time.

There are certainly ways to get houses for 100k or less if you have patience and know where to look.

Be more specific in your search

Buying a house is one of the biggest purchases that you will ever make. That said, if you are looking for a cheap home, it’s best to be more specific in your online search and don’t just rely on general words like ‘cheap home’ or ‘good deal’.

Be flexible when it comes to DIY

If you are up for DIY, you can get a fixer-upper home at a lower price. All you need is to take some time off and do the renovation work yourself. Not only will it make your home look better, but it will also help in saving money on labour costs.

Fixer Upper Homes: Fixer-upper homes are properties that have not been renovated or updated for a long time. Even if the property doesn’t have any major structural damage, they may need new paint and flooring, as well as other cosmetic improvements.

Investors are starting to pay attention to the potential in fixer-upper homes. With a low purchase price and a lower mortgage, it is easier than ever to buy a fixer-upper house.

The process of fixing up a home can be very rewarding; you have the opportunity to make your house uniquely yours. It also has the potential to be profitable, too. Fixing up your home can increase its value by hundreds of thousands of dollars if you do it right!

Conclusion

Now, you’ve seen the best ways to buy a house for 100k or less. So, what are you waiting for? Start scrolling and find your dream home today!

Bio

Our Property under 20k team are the founders of www.propertyunder20k.com and www.listproperty4free.com with the goal to search the cheapest real estate in the world and make it easy for others to find. The team is made up of landlords, real estate investors, architects and builders from several different countries.  We just love to have a good strong cup of coffee while we write our experiences in this blog.

Image by Siggy Nowak on Pixabay 

What’s the deal with bunkers for sale?

For some reasons there have been a huge interest in abandoned bunkers for sale. Always there is an ad of a bunker for sale it gets at least ten times more hits than homes for sale. Surely, many just click on it out of curiosity but many are seriously interested. What is it that makes bunkers so attractive for buyers?

Although it is considered as the ultimate hiding place, the average underground bunker usually has no windows, just air vents and most of the times no electricity, toilet or running water.

Most subterranean shelters would be accessible through a straight up concrete shaft with a steel ladder, accessed by some sort of concrete or steel hatch on the ground.

The perfect historical restoration project

For all buyers who are interested in a historical restoration venture they are just perfect. It is a truly unique project that is sure to seduce. Unfortunately, there are not as many out there as interested buyers. That’s why, despite the bad state they usually are in they are not cheap.

Some people have been very creative and building their own amazing backyard bunkers. In this case don’t forget to get the proper permits before.

We could also see a recent movement of newly built bunkers – many especially for the upper class – that offer all modern comfort you can think of and look like out of a sci fi movie.

The “bunker for sale scam”

Sadly, whatever triggers a lot of interest in many people also inspires others to come up with a scam. In the bunker story it is no different.

The scam we have seen so far is this:

There is an ad with nice and very cheap bunkers for sale. Once you contact the advertiser, he will explain that he is very sick that is why he priced his bunker for a quick sale. Due to his condition, he is also not able to show the property but someone else can be paid to show it. Therefore, he will ask you for some money to see the bunker before you buy it. Needless to say, that after paying the money you will not hear from him ever again or have any way to get through to him.

Here are some red flags to look out for:

  • Price is cheaper than normal
  • The seller asks money to show you the property

Another good way is to use the Google Reverse Image Search with the images the advertiser has in the ad. You may find that he copied them from another website.

Bio

Our Property under 20k team are the founders of www.propertyunder20k.com and www.listproperty4free.com with the goal to search the cheapest real estate in the world and make it easy for others to find. The team is made up of landlords, real estate investors, architects and builders from several different countries.  We just love to have a good strong cup of coffee while we write our experiences in this blog.

Bild von Martin Bock auf Pixabay 

Buying vs Renting – should you buy a house?

Buying or to renting a place to call home is one of the questions on many people’s minds at a certain point in life. If you are settled in a place with a good job and can foresee yourself staying there in the nearest future, would it be more advantageous to continue to rent or take out a mortgage?

The answer generally depends on individual’s choice, as you may have different values to the usually home buying route. Of course, there are benefits to renting a house, but the advantages of buying supersede that of renting. It gives you a sense of security and satisfaction in having a place to call your own – permanently. With that said, outlined below are a few key benefits you enjoy when you buy your own home as against renting.

1 – Equity building

One major benefit of buying a home is in building equity. As you make your mortgage payments, the amount of money you owe on a home reduces. And the more your home value increases, the more money you save. You can even consider mortgage as a forced savings plan. When you pay rent, you are technically making someone better off by paying their mortgage and building up their equity. Of course, renting can initially be cheaper than buying a home, but many see it as throwing money down the drain. If I may ask, why do you want to be building savings for someone else when you can contribute towards your own investment?

2 – Modify to taste

It is always fun to create a living style that is all your own. As a homeowner, you can always make changes to your home to suit your taste and preference. You can renovate, customize, and paint the walls any color you wish etc. In fact, there won’t be anyone to tell you what you can and cannot do. But if you rent a house, you are always at the mercy of whatever the homeowner will allow you to do.

3 – Unparalleled stability

The stability you experience when you have your own home is unparalleled. You understand that if you lock in an interest rate your payments remain constant. If you rent, you have no control over the increments in rental payments. The property owner may evict you or even sell the home from under you at will.

Final thought about buying vs renting

Renting a home can be a great place to start. But when you buy your own home you have a sense of permanence, and it also contributes positively to your financial future as you are constantly building equity. Additionally, buying a home provides security for your family knowing that they have a place to call their own.